Material-handling equipment

Abstract

A multi-wheeled transport vehicle which is capable of crossing uneven terrain without torquing the load, including modular wheel units permitting a low profile and means to equalize the load between the individual wheel units.

What is claimed is: 
     
       1. A wheel module for use in transport devices, comprising: a pair of wheels mounted to a trunnion base;   a cylinder with a vertical axis pivotably supporting said trunnion base;   a piston fitting in said cylinder;   an upper plate member for supporting a load;   a vertical shaft connecting said piston to said upper plate member; and   means for turning said cylinder about said vertical cylinder axis relative to said upper plate member.   
     
     
       2. A wheel module according to claim 1, wherein said cylinder has a closed end extending below axles supporting said wheels. 
     
     
       3. A wheel module according to claim 2, further comprising: means for introducing fluid under pressure to a chamber formed in said cylinder below said piston.   
     
     
       4. A wheel module according to claim 2, further comprising drive means for rotating each wheel in said pair of wheels. 
     
     
       5. A wheel module according to claim 2, further comprising: means arranged between said upper plate member and said vertical shaft for allowing said vertical shaft to rotate relative to said upper plate.   
     
     
       6. A wheel module according to claim 5, wherein said means for turning said cylinder about said cylinder axis comprises: means for coupling said cylinder to said vertical shaft connecting said piston to said upper plate member for rotation as a unit; and   means for rotating said vertical shaft relative to said upper plate member for steering of said transport device.